BRENTWOOD, NY – Ten individuals were rushed to the hospital following a carbon monoxide leak in a multifamily home on Long Island, with two in serious condition. The victims, spanning ages 10 to 87, were exposed to the colorless, odorless gas early Thursday morning, prompting a swift emergency response.
Sixteen-year-old Angel Rodriguez, a resident of the affected house on American Boulevard, narrowly avoided the incident. He had spent the night at a friend’s house and was not exposed to the gas. “It was a chaotic scene with firefighters and police everywhere,” he recounted. His mother and younger brother, aged 10, were among those hospitalized. His mother had called him around 7 a.m. to report feeling unwell, and his brother was in worse condition.
Authorities suspect the leak originated from a malfunctioning oil burner in the basement of the property. The 87-year-old landlord and his 52-year-old son were among those taken to the hospital with serious symptoms. “It’s shocking how quickly things can take a turn,” a neighbor remarked, noting the family’s regular presence in the community.
The local fire marshal has since declared the home uninhabitable, forcing the displaced families to seek temporary shelter with assistance from the Red Cross. “We had to grab our essentials and leave quickly,” Angel said, reflecting on the abrupt upheaval.
Despite the ordeal, Angel remains optimistic. “I’ve lived here for seven years and felt safe,” he shared, expressing relief that his mother and brother are recovering. Windows in the home have been left open to ventilate the air.
Experts advise that in such situations, individuals should immediately seek fresh air outside and contact emergency services. Treatment typically involves administering pure oxygen to expel the carbon monoxide from the bloodstream.